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PROVO — They are jumping from one screen to the next. After nine successful seasons on BYUtv’s “Studio C,” the show’s 10 original cast members are starting a family-friendly comedy network called JK Studios.
Starting in January 2019, the group will be releasing sitcoms, comedy sketches, improv skits, even a podcast on YouTube TV and Facebook Watch. The cast members are turning their sights to creating shorter format content.
“We think we can do even more,” comedian Matt Meese said. “We can expand on what we’ve done and create a wider platform for people.”
Their new YouTube page already has nearly 200,000 followers. They hope to continue to serve their audience with the same wholesome comedy but with just a different way of viewing that content.
“More and more, it’s becoming a content creator’s world out there,” cast member Whitney Call said. “People are just hungry for short content and so instead of a regular 25- or 40-minute show, depending on what you’re watching, they could be getting five to 20-minute shows, and that’s great for our culture right now.”
The group admits it’s a big shift but something they say will not change is their clean comedy.
“We are hoping to create the content that parents watch and then their kids can sit with them,” Call said.
To make their project work, the team is keeping costs down by turning a Provo basement into their set. And as a result, they’re getting closer than ever.
“I am contractually obligated to say that we don’t get sick of each other,” Meese joked. “No, I, I really don’t and I would like to think that no one else does either.”
“We all know each other’s strengths, we all know just what kinds of things we each can bring to the table,” Call said. “It’s really cool when you have 10 different people bringing 10 different personalities and writing styles and acting.”
So what’s the future look like for JK Studios?
“Eventually, I mean if Netflix notices us, I don’t know, that maybe we can get some places in some other digital platforms,” Call said. “That would be awesome.”
As for Studio C, the show will go on featuring new cast members.
“We are currently working on season 10 of “Studio C” and are beyond excited to introduce the new cast to all of our loyal fans! Please stay tuned as we develop new sketches and characters that will continue to bring “Studio C’s” unique comedy to viewers next year. We will continue to keep you in the loop and share more information as we approach the season 10 fall 2019 premiere date. If you’re interested in being a part of the new “Studio C” cast, please visit: byutv.org/studiocsearch.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to state the name of the new studio is JK Studios, not Studio C.
